Ask Andy: "Green" tax credits

2009-05-06T22:00:48Z

"Nancy" in Brownsville, Tennessee, thought she heard something about cash or tax credits for making her house greener:

"My husband and I would like to take advantage of the energy part of the stimulus package, (new windows and a heating unit), but we can't find any information explaining what and where we need to go and do to start this process. Can you help us?"

The U.S. Department of Energy offers both tax incentives and tax credits to folks trying to be more energy efficient. The tax credits are generally a better deal.

* HOME ENERGY TAX CREDIT. Up to $1,500 or 30 percent of the cost if you buy certain energy-efficient windows, doors, roofs or equipment.

* AUTOMOBILE TAX CREDIT. An income tax credit for hybrid cars put into service before December 2010. The amount of the credit depends on the hybrid's fuel economy and weight, and the credit is temporary. It will be phased out for each participating vehicle once its manufacturer has sold 60,000 units.

For complete details on these energy benefits and others, click here for the energy department's tax credit center: